The cat, an orange tabby dubbed Tiger, survived the injury, but lost a hind leg, according to the MSPCA.

The injured cat was found with a mangled and infected rear leg in Northbridge on April 18. The owner of the property where the cat was found, James Knott Sr., brought the wounded animal to the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University in Grafton.

Veterinarians said the cat, estimated to be about 5 years old, may have been wounded for several days before Knott found it. Knott has adopted Tiger.

MSPCA-Angell Law Enforcement officials are investigating the incident and have offered a reward for information leading to an arrest.

"What happened to this cat is as senseless as it is cruel, and we will do everything possible to identify and prosecute whoever is responsible. As our investigation is just beginning, and with few leads, I’m asking the public to please call us with any information they may have," said MSPCA Officer Christine Allenberg.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the MSPCA’s Law Enforcement hotline at 800-628-5808. Callers can remain anonymous.

Animal cruelty is a felony crime in Massachusetts that carries a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison and a $2,500 fine.